Quick Links
- Medical and Theraputic uses of mindfulness
- Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
- Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
- Integrating, Hypnosis, NLP and Mindfulness
- Other Clinical uses of Mindfulness
- Medical Case Studies
- Mindfulness in hospitals and other therapeutic settings links
- Mindfulness for clinicians and therapists: video clips
- Mindfulness from a patient's perspective: Video clips
Medical & Theraputic uses of Mindfulness
Mindfulness is now widely used to treat patients with stress and chronic pain related problems using Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and depression and anxiety related problems using Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) In addition mindfulness programmes are now being run in many hospitals to assist patients with a wide range of conditions.
Integrating, Hypnosis, NLP and Mindfulness
Matthew Ferguson teaches Mindfulness as part of Motivation Training's accredited Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy, NLP & Coaching. He has written a paper on integrating hypnosis, NLP and mindfulness. He says " It is possible to create a protocol of treatment with a structure that uses the skills of hypnosis, NLP, Mindfulness and other modern techniques..... By harnessing the above skills we raise awareness, the ability to make the changes we desire and thus raising the happiness quotient".
Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
The MBSR program started in the Stress Reduction Clinic at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center in 1979 and is now offered many hospitals, medical centers, clinics and therapeutic settings around the world. Classes are taught by physicians, nurses, social workers, and psychologists, as well as other health professionals.
Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is based on MBSR, but also includes information about depression as well as cognitive therapy-based exercises linking thinking and its resulting impact on feeling. MBCT helps participants to work better with their thoughts and feelings when depression threatens to overwhelm them, and how to recognise depressive moods that can bring on negative thought patterns.
The UK National Institute of Clinical Excellence NICE has now endorsed MBCT as an effective treatment for prevention of relapse of depression. Research has shown that people who have been clinically depressed 3 or more times (sometimes for twenty years or more) find that mindfulness considerably helps to reduce their chances that depression will return. The evidence from two randomised clinical trials of MBCT indicates that it reduces rates of relapse by 50% among patients who suffer from recurrent depression. It is claimed by some scientists that the use of MBCT techniques is more effective in treating depression than taking anti depressants.
Research demonstrates that MBSR and MBCT are both highly effective in teaching participants to become more responsible in the management of their own health, energy and healing. Over twenty years of published research indicates that the majority of people who complete the MBSR Program report lasting decreases in physical and psychological symptoms. Studies report that many participants report lasting benefits, such as:
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Developing more effective skills in managing stress coupled with a greater capacity for relaxation
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Dramatic reductions in pain levels and an enhanced ability to cope with pain that may not go away
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More self-confidence and improved self-esteem
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An increased ability to handle with both short and long-term stressful situations
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More energy and enthusiasm
Integrating, Hypnosis, NLP and Mindfulness
Matthew Ferguson teaches Mindfulness as part of Motivation Training's accredited Diploma in Clinical Hypnotherapy, NLP & Coaching. He has written a paper on integrating hypnosis, NLP and mindfulness. He says " It is possible to create a protocol of treatment with a structure that uses the skills of hypnosis, NLP, Mindfulness and other modern techniques..... By harnessing the above skills we raise awareness, the ability to make the changes we desire and thus raising the happiness quotient".
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Other clinical applications of Mindfulness
In addition to stress, chronic pain, depression and anxiety, mindfulness programmes are now being run in many hospitals to assist patients with a wide range of conditions including:
- Brain Injuries
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Fibromyalgia
- Heat Disease
- Hepatitis / HIV
- Hypertension (Blood Pressure)
- Immune system related illnesses
- Insomnia
- Organ Transplants
- Pregnancy
- Psoriasis
- Smoking cessation
- Tinnitus
See the Research page for research on the use of mindfulness meditation to treat these and other conditions.
Mindfulness Questions and Answers for GPS is a leaflet with frequently asked questions and answers aimed at GPS, produced by Be Mindful.
Mindfulness Meditation Slows Progression Of HIV: Article detailing how Mindfulness researchers at UCLA have found that the practice of mindfulness meditation stopped the decline of CD4 T cells in HIV-positive patients suffering from stress, slowing the progression of the disease.
Medical Case Studies
Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust, UK
Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust offers adults aged 65 or over and carers of any age who care for an older person free 'mindfulness' courses. The courses aim to reduce stress, anxiety and depression. The course consists of eight weekly sessions and daily home practice to help participants relate differently to their thoughts and feelings. The course is taught by a Clinical Psychologist, who has been teaching mindfulness based stress reduction (MBSR) for many years.
Adapted from: Lancashire Care NHS, UK Free mindfulness training for over 65's
Princess Margaret Hospital, Canada
Princess Margaret Hospital offer mindfulness training to patients with cancer or their family members. The programme is based on the Mindfulness Stress Reduction Program developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn, and is intended to help those diagnosed with cancer to better manage the stress and anxiety that comes with illness. It also helps patient's better cope with cancer pain. The program takes a "hands on approach"; there will be much opportunity to practice the various techniques in the group. Participants are encouraged to discuss their experiences, but are free to disclose as much or as little of their cancer experience as they feel comfortable.
Adapted from: Princess Margaret Hospital, Toronto, Canada mindfulness for cancer patients
Testimonial from a patient who attended a Mindfulness Course at Lehigh Valley Health Network
Shelly Goldberg learned to take one thing at a time, reducing her stress because of a Mindfulness class. Shelly has four children and has been managing and running her own shop for more than 20 years. She also volunteers as a librarian at a special needs school. Shelly was used to doing "10 things at once", but since experiencing Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), she's learned to focus on one task at a time and let go of her stresses.
Shelly recognised that she frequently ran on auto pilot. "When I came to the store, I'd turn on the radio and computer, make phone calls and coffee - all while waiting on customers. "I still do those things, but I'm also able to connect with my customers and give them my undivided attention," Shelly says. She started practicing mindfulness by attending a course, and as a result has experienced an unexpected lifestyle change. She appreciates even the simplicity of taking a shower. "Before when I showered, my mind was already in the car on my way to work," she says. "Now I actually focus on shampooing my hair. I enjoy every moment and really appreciate them."
Adapted from: Lehigh Valley Health Network Mindfulness Success Stories
Medical and theraputic uses of mindfulness: Useful Links
Examples of hospitals who offer patients Mindfulness training
In the UK
Avon & Wiltshire NHS Mindfulness course provides a space for patients to take some time out to learn and practice a range of simple relaxation and mindfulness techniques.
County Durham and Darlington NHS Plan to run mindfulness courses from April 2010 aimed at people who are out of work, on statutory sick leave, managing a return to work or struggling to maintain work.
Dorset NHS Use Mindfulness as a core component of their Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for borderline personality disorders. Their website also supplies patients with a number of mindfulness resources.
Gloucestershire Foundation Trust NHS Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is an integral part of the psychological therapy services provided by 2gether NHS Foundation Trust throughout Gloucestershire.
Lanarkshire NHS Offer Mindfulness training to a wide range of qualified staff working within both Primary Care and Mental Health Settings
Norfolk and Waveney PCT Have produced a Mindfulness leaflet for patients
Plymouth NHS Teaches and promotes mindfulness based cognitive therapy (MBCT). They have taught mindfulness to staff in the Primary Care Mental Health Services and other departments within the mental health services of their provider arm. They have two staff trained to Masters Standards. They also train clients in groups and on a one to one therapy basis. They report that demand for mindfulness training is increasing.
Capio Nightingale Hospital, London "Instead of using energy and stress in the struggle to get rid of our difficulties and uncomfortable feelings, we learn how to relate to them differently and to be more accepting of our direct experience, as it is. This shift in awareness and attitude can enable us to respond to problems with renewed focus, wisdom and confidence."
In the USA
Beaumont Hospitals "Learning to cultivate these "wisdom skills" can lower the production of the stress hormone cortisol while enhancing health and wellness."
Lehigh Valley Health Network Offer mindfulness classes to help patients manage pain, anxiety, chronic illness and everyday stress more effectively. They also offer it to help patients during pregnancy, and birthing
Mount Sinia Hospital run MBSR group programs for patients with HIV-Related Concerns.
New York Presbyterian Hospital, Weill Cornell Medical Centre offer Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction Program (MBSR) to patients d to teach them how to reduce stress by systematically and intentionally cultivating mindfulness
Stanford Hospital & Clinics offer a Mindfulness Program to teach mind and body awareness techniques for coping with physical or psychological symptoms from stress and stress-related illnesses.
Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals offer basic and advanced mindfulness programmes for the public, professional training in teaching MBSR for medical and mental health professionals, and programs to apply the benefits of mindfulness to leadership and organizational change in corporations and not-for-profits.
University of IOWA Health Care Offer patients MBSR for stress, chronic pain/illness, anxiety, low moods, sleep disturbance, desire for self-care and wellness & MBCT for preventing depression relapse and continuing mindfulness Classes to deepen practice. In addition they offer "Mindfulness for Freshmen" and Mindfulness for Medical/PA Students-learning to care for yourself while caring for others; introduction to effective intervention for patients, cognitive, psychological and physical benefits of mindfulness
University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority Offer patients Introductory Mindfulness Courses, Mindfulness Graduate Courses as well as Individual Patient Consultation
Other useful links
Society for Clinical Mindfulness & Meditation is a dynamic, inclusive organization committed to the advancement of theory, philosophy, practice, and research in mindfulness- and meditation-based approaches to mental health. Personal growth, mental health, education, organizational development, political/social change, and the fine and performing arts are all included within the broad scope of mindfulness and meditation.
The Society provides a forum for networking with others who hold similar interests, and membership in the Society helps members stay abreast of current research and best practices. Our membership directory also allows the public to connect with mental health professionals who utilize mindfulness and meditation in their practices.
Impact of mindfulness-based stress reduction in supporting smoking cessation: results of a non-randomised, controlled trial
National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) Quick reference guide on adult depression PDF Published October 2009. Recommends Mindfulness as a treatment of choice for recurrent depression. See pages 5 and 23
'Mindfulness' meditation being used in hospitals and schools US Today article published 6/8/2009 "A government survey in 2007 found that about 1 out of 11 Americans, more than 20 million, meditated in the past year. And a growing number of medical centers are teaching meditation to patients for relief of pain and stress."
National Pain Foundation Mindfulness-based Stress Reduction by Jim Mascolo. "One such study conducted by Jefferson University Hospital and reported in the journal General Hospital Psychiatry noted patients reduced their chronic pain, anxiety and depression, in addition to increasing their overall sense of vitality, using mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques."
Mindfulness-Based Childbirth and Parenting (MBCP) Program Nancy Bardacke, a Certified Nurse-Midwife and mindfulness teacher has taught mindfulness skills to thousands of expectant families through workshops and the 8 week Mindfulness-Based Childbirth and Parenting Education Program.
Mindfulness for clinicians and therapists: video clips
Featured video: Professor Mark Williams on MBCT
Professor Mark Williams, who co-developed Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), talks about mindfulness meditation as an alternative treatment for depression.
Drug Addiction and Mindfulness Dr. Richard Fields discusses the use of Mindfulness for Drug and Alcohol addiction.
Mental Health Foundation - Mindfulness Video (2) - Jonty Heaversedge GP and TV celebrity Jonty Heaversedge talks about the awareness of "Mindfulness" amongst GPs and the availability of the treatment on the NHS.
Mental Health Foundation - Mindfulness Video (3) Andrew McCulloch Dr Andrew McCulloch, CEO of the Mental Health Foundation, talk about the research that his Foundation has undertaken around Mindfulness as a treatment for recurrent depression and the campaign to increase availability of mindfulness treatments on the NHS.
Mindfulness Intervention in Chronic Illness (Part 1/5) Mindfulness Intervention in Chronic Illness was presented by Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral research clinician, Steven D. Hickman at the Marion Brodie Symposium held in La Jolla, CA on September 13th, 2007. Steven D. Dr. Hickman's specialty is teaching courses in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). Parts 2-5 can be located on You Tube.
Staying in the Now: Mental Health Through Mindfulness: The science of the mind: How the brain works to regulate mood, emotion, Stress and sleep Feb 2010. Dr. Stuart Eisendrath, director of the UCSF Depression Center, explores mindfulness as a technique for maintaining mental health.
THE ART & SCIENCE OF MINDFULNESS Shauna Shapiro, Ph.D. Extract from The art & science of Mindfulness presented by Shauna Shapiro, Ph.D. presented in Seattle, Oct 2009 at the FACES Conferences. In this extract Dr Shapiro discusses potential ways of integrating mindfulness and meditation into psychotherapy and the helping professions.
US Congress discuss Mindfulness. 9th June 2009. In this clip, Congressman Tim Ryan discusses the use of Mindfulness with Health Secretary Kathleen Sebelius. It demonstrates how mainstream mindfulness has become and its growing acceptance by people in positions of power. Although this clip may be a bit painful to watch for those who have knowledge of mindfulness, its little step in the right direction.
Mindfulness from a Patient's perspective: Video clips
Featured Video: Kathy Andrews talks about how mindfulness helped her beat depression
Kathy Andrews suffered from depression and was referred by her cognitive behavioural therapist to a Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) course. She finds mindfulness to be the "piece that was missing from other kinds of therapy", which allows her to "deal with what is going on in the present moment."
Mental Health Foundation - Mindfulness Video (4) - Ed Halliwell Ed Halliwell talks about his experience of mindfulness and how it helped him to slow down and pay attention when he was struggling to cope with depression. "Mindfulness, for me, is a way of training the mind to be healthy."
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